VMRDA awaits full-time Commissioner
The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has been functioning without a full-time Metropolitan Commissioner since August 8.
The State government had transferred VMRDA Commissioner Tej Bharat through an order dated August 7 and appointed Prakhar Jain as his successor. While Mr. Tej Bharat was relieved on August 8, Mr. Jain is yet to assume charge as he continues to serve as Director of the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) in Vijayawada and has not been relieved from his present assignment.
Pending Mr. Jain’s joining, the government has placed Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) Commissioner Ketan Garg in additional charge of VMRDA Commissioner.
The delay comes at a time when VMRDA is overseeing several development projects across its jurisdiction. The VMRDA Commissioner also holds responsibilities related to the Visakhapatnam Economic Region (VER), whose projects are periodically reviewed by a NITI Aayog team.
Officials said the additional charge could add to the workload of the GVMC Commissioner, who is already responsible for civic administration and delivery of essential services, including sanitation and drinking water supply.
VMRDA is currently implementing several projects, including those in the tourism sector. During his tenure, Mr. Tej Bharat had brought in additional officials on deputation to support project implementation.
With multiple projects under execution and Visakhapatnam figuring prominently in the State’s development plans, officials and stakeholders have sought early appointment of a full-time VMRDA Commissioner.
The government order relieving Mr. Jain from RTGS will determine when he can take charge at VMRDA.